How to Hire a Video Editor

When people are first looking to outsource their video editing work - whether for their YouTube channel, a personal project, a promo for their store, a trailer for their new game, etc. - they often don’t know where to start. So if that describes you, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the options so that you can determine what’s right for you.

A freelancer platform (i.e., Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, etc.)

This is the answer that Google likes to offer up if you search for how to hire a video editor, which is only so helpful, since you still have to get on that platform and find someone, and it’s only one resource type out of many. Some people find these platforms to be their preferred method because they do a lot of the work for you. You don’t have to scrub through websites, you just tell the platform what you’re looking for, and then they curate a list for you. And you can filter that list down further to get more specific, such as only video editors using Davinci Resolve, or only video editors that charge $50 per hour or under, etc. You’ll still have to post a job and set the specifics for the contract, and there may be a fee involved, but it certainly takes out some of the legwork. Platforms also often have protections in place for their clients if fraud occurs. But it’s important to acknowledge the not so convenient parts as well.

Platforms like these can be a bit of a pain to work with. As mentioned earlier, you may be subject to fees, depending on the platform. If you find a video editor you really like and would like to work with longterm directly, you may be subject to even MORE fees (look up Upwork’s policy on taking your work off platform). Despite all the filtering and inviting, you’re still going to deal with scammers and those looking to make a quick buck because platforms like these are flooded with it.

So, should you use one of these platforms? It really depends. If you have the budget to cover some fees, want someone (or something) else to do the heavy lifting for finding applicants, know how to spot scams easily, and are only looking for short term help, this may be the way to go.

Going straight to the source (i.e., freelancers and businesses)

This method requires more upfront work, but it can lead to higher quality findings. Not every freelancer is on Upwork or Fiverr, and even if they are, it doesn’t mean that’s the best way to find them or connect with them. Also, if you’re open to working with a business, you’re definitely better off connecting with them directly and having flexibility. Freelancers and business owners in the video editing space - and other creative spaces - that are true professionals know that they shouldn’t only be available on freelancing platforms. They know to set themselves up with a website and have a way for you - their prospective client - to reach them directly.

Google isn’t all that helpful in this area without you getting specific, though. One way you can get results is by adding a location or the words “near me”. Another way is getting specific in what TYPE of video editing you need, such as, “Video editing for my gaming retail store”. If Google isn’t being your friend, try Reddit next. There are many freelancers and small buiness owners on there in the video editing space looking for clients. You’ll still have to sift through a lot of low quality posts/portfolios, but you get the benefit of seeing how they present themselves “in the wild” (aka social media). And if you do look through Reddit, keep an eye out for those who share actual website links - not just google drive links. Commitment to the craft as a profession also means commitment to presenting yourself professionally, and there are still free ways to make websites.

The con is pretty obvious with this one - it takes a lot of time. You have to do a lot of digging. You’ll have to try multiple search keywords/key phrases. You’ll have to look through a lot of portfolios. But I think the pros are pretty clear too: No platform fees, no getting flooded with applicants, flexibility in how you communicate and work together, and more control over the whole process.

So, should you use this route? If you can put aside the time to do the research, are more concerned with quality then cheap labor, and are interested in longer term work, this may be the best option for you.

Going through an agency (specifically a video editing agency)

OK, full disclosure here - I’m not a fan of agencies. As a video editor, I’ve become very aware of their sleezy practices with their contractors/freelancers, and I personally steer clear. This doesn’t necessarily mean you, as a client, shouldn’t use them, but you should be aware of what you could be getting yourself into.

Although this won’t be the case for every single agency, many of them are exploitative with their video editors. They take a big cut (sometimes as high as 30%), and they keep the pricing very low to attract clients. I have seen agencies offering $5-10 per video rates to video editors. These agencies are looking to make money fast and with low effort. They lure video editors in with the promise of consistent work, and then pay them peanuts. For you, as the client, it’s nice to have really affordable video editing - especially if you’re a small content creator, a new indie studio making your first game, a small business trying to get started, etc. But price and quality are often connected. The types of video editors that work for these agencies are rarely professionals. For those who are, they are going to burn out fast or realize they’re being taken advantage of and scram.

But there’s got to be some pros, right? Well, it’s pretty similar to using a platform. The agency does a lot of legwork for you. They supply the editor. If they don’t have someone right for the job, they’ll do the work to find them. They’ll act as management for any issues with the work. But UNLIKE a platform, there may not be any protection from fraud. In fact, the agency might be the one DOING the fraud.

So, is this the right option for you? Probably not. I know I had an explanation for the other two on what circumstances would make them good options, but I would ALWAYS recommend those two over using an agency. Or if you really, really, really feel like you need to use an agency, try a marketing agency - an established one. See if they have a video editor on staff or can outsource one.

The right method of hiring a video editor is going to come down to you and your specific situation and needs. Go into it with an open mind, do some research on average costs, and be willing to talk to video editors and ask questions. Most of them are happy to answer, whether you hire them or not.